Errol Spence Jr. is just 27 years old, but the Long Island native believes his upcoming title defense vs. Lamont Peterson will be one he’ll never forget.

Spence is set to defend his IBF welterweight title on January 20 from the Barclays Center against Peterson on Showtime.

“Defending my title in Brooklyn will be special. I have family in New York too so it means a lot that I’ll be able to defend at Barclays Center. New York is a boxing city so they really appreciate champions and know the sport,” Spence said. “Everyone who has seen me fight before knows it won’t be a boring fight. Even if it’s one-sided, it’s always going to be action packed. January 20 is going to be a tremendous fight and I’m going to put on a great performance. I’m planning to dominate.”

After picking up victories over Leonardo Bundo and Chris Algieri, Spence was paired with Kell Brook in England. He finished Brook in the 11th round to secure the first major championship of his pro career.

“I’m excited to be fighting a guy like Lamont Peterson. I’m not fighting a regular no-name fighter. He’s going to bring the best out of me because he’s a true fighter. It makes the whole experience even better,” he said. “Lamont and I both have big hearts and I think everyone will be able to see that in the ring. We’re both smart fighters so there might be some feeling out before we get going. But I expect it to be a dogfight.”

Spence, a former three-time U.S. national champion who reached the quarterfinals at the 2012 Summer Olympics, is a perfect 22-0 in his career. Of those 22 victories, 19 have been knockouts.

With some of the biggest names in boxing growing older and leaving the sport, Spence feels now is the time to make his mark.

“The top spot in the sport is really up for grabs now and I’m coming for it,” he said. “I don’t care who I have to face or where, I’m going to be the last man standing. That’s why we all get into this sport. I’m extremely confident in myself.”